Life Is a Play, and It All Comes Down to Acting

Time: The story begins in 820 AD

Setting: The Tang Dynasty

Characters: The protagonist is Li Yi, later renamed Li Chen, who will become Emperor Xuanzong of Tang.

The antagonist is Li Chan, Emperor Wuzong of Tang, Li Yi's nephew and sworn enemy.

The heroine is Li Hongfang, Li Yi's confidante and beloved.

The second heroine is Xue Yun, Li Chan's maid.

The third heroine is Li Wan'er, Li Yi's unattainable first love.

Synopsis: Li Yi, the thirteenth son of Emperor Xianzong of Tang, endures humiliation for over twenty years to stay alive in a treacherous world. His rival is his nephew, Li Chan, the fifth son of Emperor Muzong of Tang. For more than two decades, Li Yi quietly builds up formidable strength, keeping a low profile as he waits for the day he can rise like a hidden dragon and soar into the heavens. At last, he turns a hopeless hand into a winning one. He outlives four emperors: Muzong, Jingzong, Wenzong, and Wuzong. Twenty-six years later, he ascends to the supreme throne of the Tang Dynasty!